What It Takes to Train Your Dog for Different Levels

Many people get into the bird dog world with a young dog and train for beginner-level events, like the NAVHDA Natural Ability test, AKC Junior Hunter tests, or field trial puppy and derby stakes. With a well-bred bird dog and some deliberate exposure, doing well at these events shouldn't take a ton of effort. However, the jump to intermediate or advanced levels of testing is large. I find that people often underestimate the amount of time and energy it takes to get your dog ready for Senior/Master hunting tests, adult field trial stakes, or the NAVHDA Utility test (I know I did!). This episode discusses some general guidelines on the amount of time and effort you should expect to invest in order to reach the various levels.
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The Accidental Bird Dog Podcast is part of the HerUpland Podcast Network and is sponsored by OnX Hunt.